Belgo Building

Set on an otherwise unappealing stretch of Rue Sainte-Catherine, the industrial-looking Belgo Building is an inauspicious hub for the city’s contemporary art scene. Inside, the building is brimming with small galleries, some of which also serve as artists’ workshops. There are around 30 in all, ranging from jewelry design to sculpture and photography. Two of the best are Pierre-François Ouellette Art Contemporain (No. 216; 514-395-6032) and Galerie René Blouin (No. 501; 514-393-9969). And though his space is more workshop than display space, jeweler Jacques Troalen (No. 526; 514-875-9995 or 9994) turns out pieces that are museum-worthy. Ask to see photos of his early work, which includes a ‘70s-era Cleopatra-style gold choker that has an elegant timelessness.

Belgo Building

Set on an otherwise unappealing stretch of Rue Sainte-Catherine, the industrial-looking Belgo Building is an inauspicious hub for the city’s contemporary art scene. Inside, the building is brimming with small galleries, some of which also serve as artists’ workshops. There are around 30 in all, ranging from jewelry design to sculpture and photography. Two of the best are Pierre-François Ouellette Art Contemporain (No. 216; 514-395-6032) and Galerie René Blouin (No. 501; 514-393-9969). And though his space is more workshop than display space, jeweler Jacques Troalen (No. 526; 514-875-9995 or 9994) turns out pieces that are museum-worthy. Ask to see photos of his early work, which includes a ‘70s-era Cleopatra-style gold choker that has an elegant timelessness.